Removal of Toxic Heavy Metals Using Genetically Engineered Microbes: Molecular Tools, Risk Assessment and Management Strategies

As a result of the increasing rates of heavy metal pollutants in many environmental resources, it was necessary to discover and develop new methods for treating heavy metal pollutants, and one of the most effective methods is the use of genetically modified microorganisms such as bacteria (Shewanella Oneidensis and Cupriavidus Metallidurans) which is very useful in getting rid of heavy metal pollutants. This study aims to determine and evaluate the effectiveness of genetically modified bacteria and organisms such as Shewanella Oneidensis and Cupriavidus Metallidurans. In getting rid of heavy metal pollutants, genetically modified bacteria were used and obtained from MB Genetics, which is one of the leading companies in this field. Strains of genetically modified bacteria were obtained from MB Genetics, a company specialising in synthesising genetically modified microbes. Then, these genetically modified bacteria were used to reduce the presence of harmful heavy metals in the water to acceptable levels that meet the permissible limits and values. These bacteria were used under different conditions and different pH numbers. The results indicated the effectiveness of genetically modified bacteria in eliminating levels of heavy metals in water. Both bacterial strains successfully eliminated more than 91% of lead at a pH of 7. The study highlighted the significant influence of acidity and pH levels in determining the levels of heavy metals present in water and the environment in general. High levels of pollution with heavy and harmful metals in water can be treated by using genetically modified bacteria such as (Shewanella Oneidensis and Cupriavidus Metallidurans); this treatment is highly effective in removing harmful heavy metals from water when it is used correctly and by the principles of scientific research and scientific theories.